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Microcredentials or Digital credentials are the electronic equivalent of paper-based credentials that provide proof of qualifications or learning achievements. A digital badge is a digital credential that symbolizes a learner’s achievements acquired through formal and informal educational experiences, such as courses, workshops, projects, or internships.

Digital badges are often displayed online and shared on social media or professional networks to showcase the bearer’s achievements. Each badge details the learner’s accomplishments, including visible metadata that outlines the skills developed, the requirements for earning the badge, and its relevance to observers like employers. This structured representation highlights the learner’s capabilities and the value of their achievements in a comprehensive and verifiable format.

Not all digital badges are equal in terms of effort and significance. The following Digital Badging Taxonomy serves as a system to classify different kinds of digital badges; it is designed to help decision-makers better identify certain types of badges for fast, easy, and, in some cases, automated decision-making.

What is a “Microcredential”?

What is a “Microcredential”?

Let’s start by defining “Credential.” A credential is a qualification, achievement, personal quality, or aspect of a person’s background, typically indicating suitability. Having mentioned microcredentials, macrocredentials must be introduced and included. Usually, macrocredentials refer to associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees offered by higher education institutions (Universities, colleges, and community colleges). These programs are usually long format and require several steps of coursework that culminate in the expertise of an area of study. Micro-credentials are short courses aimed at obtaining or upscaling skills desired within industries.

Since there are multiple forms of micro-credentials, TC2 HUB Microcredential and Digital Badges Taxonomy can be used to explain an ecosystem of micro-credentials. Microcredentials are separated into 2 big groups depending on whether they are obtained before the completion of an assessment or if they do not require an assessment. Below, we introduce formal and informal micro-credentials following the structure of TC2 HUB.

Formal Micro-Credentials

Knowledge

This is the first level of formal micro-credentials. It is based on acquiring introductory-level knowledge, either theoretical or practical. The assessment is done by verifying the acquisition of the knowledge.

Skill

The second level of formal microcredential is based on building skills. It is assessed through proficiencies developed during training or practice. A portfolio can be started and can be used in the assessment.

Ability

This is the third level of formal microcredentials. It assesses mastery over a skill in a field. Could be seen as the culmination of a project and representation of expert-level knowledge

Certification

The fourth and last level of formal micro-credentials. It is the most widely recognized microcredential. It is the culmination of knowledge, skills, and ability. Acquiring one requires completing an accredited industry-recognized solution, certification, track, specialization, or learning path.

Informal Micro-Credentials

Participation

It is a microcredential based on engagement. Usually involves attending a presentation, webinar, seminar, etc.

Recognition

Microcredential given through peer-to-peer recognition or motivation

Why are they important?

Why are they important?

For quite some time, the conversation around education has heavily leaned upon higher education degrees like associate’s, bachelor’s, and others. These are your macrocredentials, as we have mentioned above. However, by adopting new educational approaches, we can build a more robust repertoire of skills. What we want to obtain is a better set of credentials overall. Our macro-credentials matter, but they must be sustained by properly supporting micro-credentials. For example, having a BS in Computer Science is important. However, you can have a strong resume and background if supported by multiple micro-credentials like professional certifications. They are important not only because they target specific skills of your choosing but can be completed in short periods.

To summarize, earning a professional certification is the most efficient and effective way to prove your skills in a competitive job market. Professional certifications tell us that the person who has them is ready for a job. These qualifications build credibility, boost your confidence, and help you stand out from other professionals in your field. If you’re a professional looking for a new career, getting certified can help. It can open new opportunities, put you ahead of the competition, and lead to bigger paychecks. It’s not an easy process, but it is worth it. Ensure you have a balanced portfolio of microcredentials to help you acquire the skills for those professional certifications.